Dogs licking things is a natural behavior, but sometimes it can feel like your dog just can’t stop! Dogs use their tongues as a primary tool for exploring their environment – from their own puppies and paws to your face.
We, as humans, might find it hard to relate to this canine habit of licking as a form of greeting since we don’t engage in similar behavior. After all, we typically reserve our tongues for treats like ice cream cones.
For dogs, however, their tongues are as crucial to their experience of the world as our eyes, noses, and ears are to us. It’s their multi-use tool. Dogs use their tongues to taste things, meet new people and animals, show submissiveness, and communicate their value for your companionship and friendship.
Generally, dog licking is a harmless activity. The occasional lick on your hand, ankle, or cheek from a warm, moist tongue is at most mildly irritating.
But why would you want to put a stop to your dog’s licking entirely?
I confess, I ‘quite enjoy it when my’m not a fan of my dog trying to lick me! My wife loves it. But my dogs, being very relaxed and chilled, doesn’t overdo it.
However, some dogs can take licking to an excessive level, which is a common problem. It’s less than ideal to be overwhelmed by a slobbery, overactive tongue in your own home. Some dogs might relentlessly follow you from room to room, trying to give you a ‘kiss’!
Just imagine a long, wet, slobbery tongue aiming for your belly button as you’re reaching for the top shelf. Not really the kind of behaviour you want, it might be cute the first time, but over time it can become tiresome.
And many dogs don’t limit their affection to bare skin some dogs lick everything. Carpet, sofa, walls, leaves, tree bark & making sure you or the people in homes you visit with your dog do not have toxic or poisonous plants would be a cause of anxiety for me.
But usually, there’s more to this behavior than mere affection. Animal behaviors like licking often carry more nuanced and complex meanings than we might think. It’s not always easy to stop a dog from licking excessively.
The same gesture can convey various messages depending on the circumstances, the dog’s state of mind, and other concurrent behaviors. As the one who knows your dog best, it’s up to you to understand the motives behind the licking.
In our everyday lives, dogs may well be communicate their affection with us through the action of licking. This act, while a charming part of canine behavior until it becomes excessive. But it’s not just the love they feel for their human counterparts that prompts this constant licking. It can also be a sign of stress or anxiety in your pet.
The scene is common: you return home after a hard day, and your dog greets you with a flurry of licks. While these ‘puppy love’ licks might be endearing they could be your dog showing anxiety and it being glad you are now home.
Some questions to ask that may allow you to notice what the behaviour means for your dog.
Does your dog get enough attention and mental stimulation? Is she cooped up alone for hours on end? Does she have ample opportunities to run and sniff in the great outdoors? It’s essential to ensure your dog is neither bored nor stressed.
If you think this behaviour is due to anxiety then to address the licking problem, you might need to make some lifestyle changes. Could you perhaps drop by home during lunch breaks, or arrange for a neighbor to keep an eye on him or her?
Remember, exercise is critical for a relaxed and content dog. Playing, grooming, and training sessions in the evenings could prove beneficial, though they alone may not resolve the issue. You could consider distracting your dog with chew toys stuffed with dog-friendly treats, an excellent way to keep an idle dog busy.
In cases where the licking is simply a show of your dog’s sheer enthusiasm and love, establishing boundaries is important. As soon as the licking becomes overwhelming, shift away and avoid eye contact with your dog. Pair this action with a firm ‘no’ or any phrase you prefer, but remember to remain consistent.
Your dog will likely follow and start the licking routine all over again. Don’t worry you haven’t failed; this approach simply requires patience and perseverance. The idea is to withdraw the attention your dog seeks, giving the clear signal that excessive licking is not okay.
However, bear in mind that it’s crucial to communicate your dog’s training needs to others as well. For instance, during walks, let people know that you’re trying to discourage your dog’s licking behavior.
Remember, curbing the excessive licking should not make your pet feel unloved. It’s about setting boundaries that ensure both you and your dog are comfortable in each other’s company.
Whatever you try, give your dog time to figure out what message you are trying to convey to them, they are smart animals and they will get it in the end if you are gentle and consitant.